Alcohol poisoning

Overview

Blood alcohol keeps rising after drinking stops, so a person can get worse.

Coffee, cold showers, or sleeping it off don't help.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Can't wake up
• Slow or irregular breathing
• Seizure
• New confusion or not acting like themselves

Less common

• Vomiting
• Cold, pale skin

Look up a symptom: Hangover after drinking · New confusion or not acting like themselves · Vomiting

When to get medical care

Causes

Alcohol.

Who is more likely to get it

• Binge drinking

Diagnosis

This is diagnosed in the emergency room or hospital.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Exam:

Treatment

Emergency care is needed. While waiting for help:

Self-care

• Call 911
• Turn on side
• Stay with them

Which doctor treats this

• Emergency doctors treat it first, in the ER.
• Poison Control can help right away, any time: call 1-800-222-1222.

Back to school, work, or sports

• Recovery time varies. Ask your care team when you can drive, lift, work, and exercise.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Teens and college students: Higher risk with binge drinking.

For caregivers

• Go to visits when you can and take notes.
• Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
• Learn the warning signs that need fast care.
• Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Fast care prevents death.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• What follow-up care do I need?
• How can I prevent this from happening again?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Alcohol poisoning